Pastor Oby Ballinger kicks off his new role as senior pastor at Edina Morningside Community Church on Rally Day, Sunday, September 11.
“Our congregation is thrilled to officially welcome Pastor Oby on Rally Day,” says Sonja Martens, EMC moderator, “and we know he can’t wait to get started, serving our congregation and the greater community.”
Ballinger, a Minnesota native and summa cum laude graduate of Yale Divinity School, begins his new duties at EMC on Sept. 6. Rally Day will be the first Sunday he preaches at EMC.
“I’ve been enthusiastically welcomed by Edina Morningside Church, and I can’t wait to extend that Open and Affirming welcome to all of our neighbors on Rally Sunday. The church makes sure everyone has a place in the community, because we follow the example of Jesus, who welcomed every person with no exceptions.”
As is EMC’s tradition, Rally Day welcomes members, friends and visitors back in September. This year’s event will include an expansive appetizer spread, intergenerational games, a selfie photo booth, and a special farewell to Alex Heetland, EMC’s choir director, who is taking a new position in India.
“Rally Day is such a fun day to celebrate — everyone is invited!” adds Martens.